Gut Health
Caring for Your Second Brain
The repercussions of a compromised gut extend far beyond digestive issues.
Often referred to as the "Second Brain," the gut intricately connects to various aspects of your well-being, influencing the immune system, cognitive function, and hormonal balance. Remarkably, about 95% of serotonin—a vital hormone impacting digestion, mood, sleep, bone health, and sexual function—is produced in the gut.
Continuous communication between your gut and brain involves real-time updates and signals, shaping your overall experience. That's why a hearty meal can instantly uplift your mood, while a day of minimal nourishment may leave you feeling irritable.
So, when things start to go bad in the gut, your overall health suffers.
What is Leaky Gut?
You may be familiar with the term, but "leaky gut" happens when the lining of the digestive tract becomes overly permeable due to the accumulation of toxins and bacteria. This thinning allows food particles, chemicals, and other substances from the gut to seep into the bloodstream, setting off a chain reaction of issues.
These leaks can spark inflammation, bloating, allergic reactions, and a range of other symptoms.
Signs of a Leaky Gut Include:
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Gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, pain, and constipation
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Autoimmune diseases
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Hormonal imbalances
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Nutritional deficiencies
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Weakened immune system
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Cravings for carbohydrates and sugars
Say Goodbye to the Bloat
Bloating? Foggy? Fatigued?
Bloating
Bloating is a natural part of the digestion process. However, excessive bloating can lead to feelings of fullness and discomfort. An excess of gas and bloating often results from increased fermentation as your gut microbiome processes carbohydrates.
Digestive Issues
Experiencing a sense of being "backed up"? This may be attributed to undigested contents, including foods and liquids. When your gut health is suboptimal, your intestines struggle to digest food effectively, leading to blockages and that uncomfortable feeling of fullness.
Hormonal Influence
Surprisingly, hormones play a pivotal role in bloating. Many women notice this phenomenon during their menstrual cycles, but it's also a common sign during premenopause. If your hormones are imbalanced, this could be a contributing factor to increased bloating.
Our Approach to Assistance
At Healthy Healing Functional Medicine, we adopt a natural approach to address your gut health concerns. Through our specialized stool testing, nutritional guidance, personalized meal planning, and supplement recommendations, you benefit from a team of professionals committed to enhancing your gut health, ultimately contributing to your overall well-being.